WW1 Northern Cyclist Battalion Unique Collectable - a framed illuminated scroll dated September 1915

An extremely attractive and beautifully illustrated calligraphy and original painted watercolour illuminated scroll from the non-commissioned officers and men of E Company, 1st Northern Cyclist Battalion by Cyclist J Spark and dated 14th September 1915. It was their gift to Miss K. Swan on the occasion of her wedding to Captain J. Harold Brunskill, 1st Line, Northern Cyclist Battalion. The names and ranks of the 72 members of E company are listed on the scroll, including that of the illustrator, Cyclist Sparks. It has the quality of a wonderful feel of a Lindisfarne gospel! Colours are still bright despite the age. A splendid one off and all the more poignant as on the back of the large mount and glazed frame (contemporary) is a GWCG memorial page for her husband who died on 29th September 1917 while serving with the Army Cyclist Corps and is buried in Northern France.

The illustration is circa 27cm by 20 cm in size. The frame is heavy and is 51 by 45 cm. The glass is in good condition but the frame has some wear and minor damage. It has hooks and string on the reverse for mounting.

The Northern Cyclist Battalion was formed in 1910 and for administrative purposes was attached to the Northumberland Fusiliers.

London Gazette (29 Oct 1912) confirms the appointment to The Northern Cyclist Battalion of a James Harold Brunskill (late Cadet Corporal, Durham University Contingent, Senior Division, Officers Training Corps) to be Second Lieutenant.
Dated 24th September, 1912.

ZUYDCOOTE Military Cemetery (Nord France)
BRUNSKILL JAMES HAROLD
United Kingdom Captain Army Cyclist Corps 29/09/1917 Age: 30 I. G. 3


Northern Cyclist Battalion
1/1st Battalion: Headquartered at the Drill Hall on Hutton Terrace, Sandyford Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, the battalion moved on mobilisation in early August 1914 to its pre-planned war station at Morpeth. By 1916 it had moved to nearby Alnwick where it remained as part of the Tyne Garrison.
2/1st Battalion: Formed in late 1914 as a second line unit. By 1916 was at Skegness and in June 1918 was at Burton Constable as part of the Humber Garrison.
3/1st Battalion: Formed in 1915 as a depot/training unit. Disbanded in March 1916 and its men posted to the 1/1st and 2/1st, with some going to the Machine Gun Corps.

Due to the glazing and weight, we regret we will post to UK mainland address only, or could deliver if the location is convenient or buyer can collect by arrangement. I will be sad to part with this, but it is looking for a good home!

Code: 52707